As spring creeps from the depths of a long winter, Muskoka begins to awaken from its slumber. The twitter of birds rings through the forest, echoing across the landscape, and streams bubble as they wind their way along to crystal clear lakes. These are the sounds of nature in Muskoka.

But what will happen to these creatures and natural wonders if Muskoka’s land becomes scarce, swallowed by development? It’s a thought some people don’t want to imagine, which is why more and more concerned residents and cottagers are donating land to organizations like the Muskoka Heritage Trust for preservation. Not only does this give sanctuary to the flora and fauna that inhabit these areas, but it also preserves them for future generations to enjoy.

The Muskoka Heritage Trust is an organization that is dedicated to preserving select properties in order to contribute to the connectivity of these lands, so the wildlife that call it home have a place to live and thrive.

“The land trust has one purpose and it is to acquire and maintain interest in real property,” says Russ Black, president of the Muskoka Heritage Trust. “The idea is that it’s got to be a place where the animals, birds and plants have a place to live.”...